Skype for Business on Android Updated to Version 6.9.0.1

Microsoft has rolled out a small update for Skype for Business on Android that introduces the ability to search for contacts within the app. With Microsoft Teams now announced, what does the future hold for the business-focused Skype?

Skype for Business users on Android are being treated to a new update today. Microsoft has rolled out version 6.9.0.1 of the service to the Google Play Store. This is an incremental bump to the service that lacks any substantial new additions. However, there are some new features to discuss.

For example, Skype for Business on Android now gives users the ability to search for contacts directly in the app. The service also scores fresh security improvements, an important part of a business-oriented social application.

Instead of providing a changelog, Microsoft says “Thank you for downloading the latest Skype for Business for Android update, in this version we added search for device contacts, display of Skype for Business direct inward dialing phone number, security improvements, and bug fixes.”

If you have yet to try the service on Android, you can get it from the Google Play Store.

Maintaining Skype for Business

Microsoft has believed Skype for Business can and should be the go-to communication service for enterprise. There is some tough competition in this sector, not least from Slack. The very recent launch of Microsoft Teams leaves us wondering what Microsoft will do with its business-focused Skype.

Launched earlier this month, Microsoft Teams is a service that shares many aspects with the business-oriented Skype. If is the company’s response to Slack and provides an all-encompassing chat-based workspace. While the company is unlikely to drop Skype for Business, it will be interesting to see how it differentiates the services.

In fact, it is something Microsoft will need to do. The company’s recent signals show the Skype service will continue to be supported fully. Indeed, Microsoft brought the service out of preview on Apple’s Mac platform just last month and continues to send fresh updates across platforms.

Luke has been writing about all things tech for more than five years. He is following Microsoft closely to bring you the latest news about Windows, Office, Azure, Skype, HoloLens and all the rest of their products.